Task force director dies on foot pursuit

Officer Larry Johnson, 65, was pursuing a parolee who ran from authorities when he collapsed

By PoliceOne staff

CLARKSVILLE, Ark. — The 5th Judicial District Drug Task Force Director died after collapsing during a foot pursuit on Tuesday,

Larry Johnson, 65, was pursuing a parolee who ran from authorities into a wooded area, according to ABC 40-29.

"We really don't know for sure what happened," Johnson County Coroner Todd McAteer told Arkansas Online. "He's been sent to the Medical Examiner's office in Little Rock. We're thinking probably a heart attack but not for sure."

Clarksville Police Department Chief Greg Donaldson wrote on the department’s Facebook page, “Larry was a friend, confidante, and brother in blue who gave his life protecting and serving the citizens of Clarksville, Johnson County, and the State of Arkansas.

“As a community, I ask you to wrap your arms around all of your law enforcement professionals and the Johnson family in the coming days and say a prayer for us as we struggle to come to terms with our loss."